Switzerland 20 Rappen Coin, Libertas Head
Swiss Mint (Federal Mint of Switzerland) · Collectibles & Antiques > Numismatics (Coins)
Era / Decade
1885 (Late 19th Century)
Material
Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Weight: 4.0g. Diameter: 21.05mm.
Condition
Fair to Good (G). The coin shows significant circulating wear, heavy toning/darkening, and scratches. The text 'CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA' and the date '1885' are legible, but the central Liberty (Libertas) portrait is worn with lost detail.
Demand Level
Low. Common date for this series with high mintage (2.5 million). Primarily sought by budget world coin collectors or as 'bulk' foreign currency.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$1.00 - $3.00 (Low-Mid-High)
Estimated Retail Value
$0.22 (Face value 0.20 Swiss Francs)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for 1885 20 Rappen coins in similar circulated condition range from $0.99 to $2.50. High-grade (MS-60+) examples can reach $50+, but this specific specimen does not meet that grade.
Description
Authentic 1885 Swiss 20 Rappen coin. The obverse features the head of Liberty (Libertas) facing right, wearing a tiara inscribed with 'LIBERTAS', surrounded by the legend 'CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA'. The reverse (not pictured but standard for this year) features a wreath of oak leaves surrounding the numeral 20. This coin represents the longstanding Swiss monetary design that has remained largely unchanged for over a century.
Key Features
Historical 19th-century date; high nickel content; 'B' mint mark (Bern); iconic design that is still legal tender in Switzerland today.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font style and spacing for the era; appropriate wear patterns for a cupronickel coin of this age. High confidence in authenticity but low bullion/collector value due to condition.
Flaws to Note
Significant surface wear, heavy oxidation/darkening, scratches, and rim dings. Lacks the 'Fine' or 'Extra Fine' detail required for high-tier numismatic value.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as a PWE/standard envelope listing) or Etsy (as a vintage supply/craft item). Better suited for a local coin shop 'junk bin' or a bulk lot of foreign coins.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean or polish the coin, as this destroys numismatic value. Use the keyword '1885 Swiss 20 Rappen' and 'Libertas'. List it with free shipping in a plain white envelope (PWE) to remain competitive, as shipping costs will likely exceed the coin's value otherwise.